Tour Watopia 2024

Stage 2: Breaking Point

Date: 3rd January
Distance: 51 km / 31.6 mi
Type: Points & eGap Time Classification
Elevation Gain: 268 m / 880 ft

Overview: Now that the standings have been established let's let the sprinters a bit of fun. Stage 2, aptly named "Breaking Point," will be littered with all out sprints and lead-out trains in the first half of this 51 km (31.6 mi) group stage. The stage is marked by moderate elevation gains and a variety of terrain, offering a dynamic racing experience. Be aware though, the Fuego Sprint Segment is excluded in this stage.

Key Highlights:

• Terrain Diversity: A mix of terrains will add in an extra challenge as packs try and keep their speeds high. 

• Elevation Challenge: With a total elevation gain of 268 meters (880 feet), riders need to be prepared for undulating terrain.  including climbs that could be decisive in the points classification.

• Group Dynamics: As a group stage, drafting and teamwork will play crucial roles. Riders need to stay alert and responsive to the peloton's movements.

Tips for Riders:

• Strategy for Points: Focus on accumulating points at key segments, considering that the Fuego Sprint Segment is excluded.

• Climbing Approach: Manage efforts on climbs, balancing between maintaining a good position and conserving energy.

• Teamwork: Work with teammates or align with other groups for drafting benefits, especially on flatter sections.

Expectation: This stage will likely see a mixture of tactics as riders navigate the varied terrain and vie for points. The moderate climbs could offer opportunities for breakaways or could see the peloton staying together for a tactical finish. This will start shaping the story of how this race will be playing out at each pepper class!

SPRINTs

Woodland Sprint Reverse 500 m / 0.31 mi average incline -1.6%

Sasquatch Sprint Reverse 500 m / 0.31 mi average incline -1.6%

Acropolis Sprint Reverse 450 m / 0.28 mi average incline -1.1%

Stoneway Sprint Reverse 500 m / 0.31 mi average incline -1.6%

CLIMBSs 

No Climbs

FOR THE SICK!OS

The first rule of being a cycling sicko is learning to stalk Strava segments. You've got to know what you're capable of to prevent yourself from blowing up and watching the pack ride away. Click on the button below and check out your past results. You'll need to be Premium Member on Strava for leaderboards

Now for the truly ill amongst us there is then head over to Veloviewer which is going to present things to us in a very different way. The information is more detailed, and gives a unique analysis of the segment. It also has a better visual representation of the ride ahead. This tool is free to use

Now this is where most of you will stop, you'll be satisfied now with all of that. Not here at 😷⚡we're a bit kookoo for coco puffs.

Lastly we did course recon on every meter/foot of each stage. From this we built a 😷⚡🍞(breadcrumb) cheat sheet. With this there are very little surprises heading your way you'll be about as prepared as it gets.

Bonus section to take the vail off of the mystery of 🥤🍜 (on/off bike nutrition). Here we will have the entire breakdown of what we ate and drank the day of the event. This is mostly to document this for ourselves but Chef Sick! is creative in the kitchen. You'll have seen these melas on the Social feeds if you've been following us.